480 People Notified of Potential Exposure to Fifth Disease Virus

Viral Infection Characterized by Rash and Fever

Letters of caution were sent to more than 480 people who were seen in the labor and delivery area of the Stony Brook University Medical Center recently, after two health care workers at the hospital became infected with a viral illness known as Fifth Disease.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines fifth disease as a "mild illness that resolves on its own among children and adults who are otherwise healthy." According to Dr. William H. Green, chief quality officer at the medical center, this viral infection can produce a low grade fever and a bright red rash on the face, trunk and limbs. It is caused by human parvovirus B-19, which only infects humans.

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If you or a loved one has suffered ill health or injury from exposure to this virus, please click the link below to send your complaint to a lawyer to evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation.
Published on Aug-6-08